How To Live With Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is nothing, but the common form of arthritis and it is termed as a progressive breakdown of cartilage that provides cushion to the joints. It involves the whole joint, inclusive of the underlying bone, ligaments, joint lining and cartilage. Apart from bringing down the mobility of joints, this condition also causes stiffness and pain that can bring about a negative impact on the ability of the patient to engage in his/her day-to-day activities as well.

Age factor:

Even though, this condition can occur in individuals regardless of their age group, the incidence increases with age, particularly for elders in the age group of 65 and above. Reports state that this condition is the leading cause of disability among elderly people. Even though, this condition can occur in any joints, it is known to be commonly affecting the joints in fingers, lower back, big toes, neck, knees, hips and thumbs. The other areas that can be affected include ankles and elbows. The extent of this condition and the joints that get affected vary from one patient to another. Some patients need help even in their day-to-day tasks like rising from the chair, grasping and lifting objects, walking and climbing stairs.

Risk factors:

Generally, this condition arises slowly and develops over the period of time. Particularly, if it is not treated, it can worsen. Risk factors can be brought under different categories like environmental factors, metabolic factors and genetic factors. The following are the common risk factors associated with this condition:

• Genetics

• Putting joints to excess use

• Increase in age

• Gender as women is more prone to this condition after 55 years as against men.

Many elders feel that after getting this issue, they cannot lead a normal life as they will have to rely on others for every activity they involve in. But, the fact is that patients with this condition can lead a normal life, if the condition is detected early and treated appropriately. Here are certain things the patients can follow to lead a normal life:

• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress caused due to excess weight to the joints